How To Hack Your Household (Part 1)

A few weeks ago, I posted this question on my personal Facebook page:

As you can see, I received quite a few helpful comments, several links to great websites, and tips from experienced Parent Hackers.

I’ve since put several “household hacks” into action, and it’s been fabulous! I have much more time for the important things in life.

Life gets busy, doesn’t it? Especially when you’re balancing a million different things all at once.
I am a mother, wife, friend, sister, daughter, and a business owner. Improving my lifestyle is an ongoing process, and one I enjoy greatly. But, it takes work.

Here is what I’ve implemented so far …

1. LAUNDRY – Outsourcing the laundry has been great. When it gets out of control, load up the bags and take it to a laundromat. Washed, dried, folded in a few hours. Phew!

A few important things to remember:

1. No one can do it all. — I’ve written about this before, and I’m sure I’ll write about it again. I am not super-human, and neither are you. Ask for help.

2. Schedule fun stuff into your life – Every week, I plan something cool, fun, different, interesting for our family to do together. Sometimes these are big adventures, other times its a surprise trip to a new ice cream store. It doesn’t have to cost a lot of money to be fun, memorable, and worthwhile.

3. Keep your priorities straight. — What is REALLY important to you? Think about it, when you die, what do you want people to say about you? Start being that person today.

4. Set boundaries. — Set boundaries and time limits for yourself, your kids, and your business. I use a timer to let my kids know when I will be finished working. When the timer goes off, I stop and play with them. This forces me to be focused and productive while I am working.

5. Limit digital time. — Limiting digital time has dramatically improved our family dynamic. When the kids are home, all computers are off – including mine! Find your own “digital free” time and connect with your family without any screens involved. Get creative: bake something, build something, play something, draw something, go outside and play! — Another cool idea is to use “tickets” for kids to manage their own digital time. I’m testing this out in our house next week. Click Here to learn more.

Schedule fun activities monthly

Here are a few helpful resources for those of you looking to “hack” your household …

Parent Hacks : Smart tips to help you simplify family life and have more fun!

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